Bruxelles

Return to Québec City

Monday, March 23, 2009

Public affairs

In 2008, when the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec City was celebrated, residents of Mons came to Quebec City with their giants to participate in the New France Festival that takes place every summer.

Loupe

The members of <i>Asbl Patrimoine et Traditions de Messines</i> together with M. N. Martin, Alderman of economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture of the City of Mons and Ms. Cl. Deslongchamps, Director Public Affairs and Communications of the Québec Government Office in Brussels

The giants roused a lot of interest and awe among Quebecers when they began to dance.

The Mons residents took thousands of photos of their journey, which enchanted them. An exhibition of approximately hundred works entitled Québec le retour (Return to Quebec City) was launched on March 13 in the presence of members of the city of Mons and the Québec Government Office in Brussels. It was held at the Anciens Abattoirs (old slaughterhouses) in Mons until March 23.

The tradition of the giants in Québec dates back to just over a decade. It was inspired by the regions of Europe, including the Walloon area of Belgium, which have successfully continued this folk tradition. Even though it is still new in Québec, the Champlain giant is already well known in Quebec City and for good reason.